How to Choose the Best Infant Cribs

A crib is among the most essential pieces of your baby's nursery. However, picking a suitable crib can be a daunting task, especially with so many different styles and safety concerns.

Look for a crib that meets the most stringent safety standards and has no chewable or dangling parts. We also recommend a stylish crib that has a variety of mattress heights as well as modern, sleek design.

Safety

When assembling and setting up your baby cots online's crib make sure to follow safe sleep guidelines set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is important to avoid putting any items in the crib of your baby which could cause injury or harm, including pillows, blankets, sheepskins, stuffed toys and bumper pads (see our complete guide to safe sleep for more details). Teddy bears, dolls and other stuffed animals larger than 15 inches should not be allowed to sleep in your baby's crib. These items could easily slide between the crib bars or become stuck within them. They may also get swallowed by the mattress.

The best cribs for infants are made of safe materials that are free from VOCs and other harmful chemicals. They also adhere to strict federal laws, state and local regulations for structural safety. They're also tested by third parties to ensure safety and quality. (Think GREENGAURD Gold or ASTM, JMPA or CPSIA certs!) They're also designed to be durable and convertible, so they'll grow with your child.

It's crucial to choose cribs that meet current safety standards, regardless of whether you're buying a brand new or used crib. Secondhand cribs may lose structural integrity over time due to the effects of humidity, age and use. This could create serious risks for your baby.

The slats of your crib should not be more than 2-3/8 inches (6 centimeters) apart to prevent children from being wedged between them and the hardware that is on the crib must be secured. It's an excellent idea to check the mattress support rims and slats for any loose or broken parts.

It is recommended to stay clear of cribs that were used by children or pets in the past, as their safety could be at risk. Don't purchase or buy the crib that has drop-side rails. This feature was banned in 2012 by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to protect the public.

Style

While all cribs must comply with strict safety standards, there are many design differences. Some are just aesthetic, such as whether the slats all have the same length or are spaced farther apart, while others can affect how easy it is to use and clean the crib. Certain features, such as finials and drop sides aren't safe and should be avoided, while others--like adjustable mattress height and casters/wheels--are popular with parents.

A crib isn't designed to be used for toys or clothes. It's designed to be an area where babies can sleep. You can also include the crib on your registry to seek assistance from family and friends in the event you need help.

Cribs are available in a variety of different styles, but we prefer ones that blend style with functionality. For instance, the Storkcraft Equinox 3-in-1 crib is simple and looks sharp. It's GREENGUARD Gold certified, which we believe is a must-have for any toxic-free Baby Crib product and can be converted into a toddler bed and daybed (toddler conversion kit sold separately).

Some cribs sport an older-style look like the DaVinci Jayden 4-in-1. It's a grand crib that is a good fit for large nurseries, but it occupies more space than smaller minimalist options and has exposed hardware that some might find distracting. It only has three levels of mattress which is a fraction of the number of competitors. It's also not as sturdy as our other choices.

Another option with modern design is the Babyletto Hudson. Its concealed hardware and all-round mesh increase airflow and allow you to see your baby, which Dr. Casares says is an important feature for a lot of new parents. It can also be raised to a higher height to ease colic and reflux, making it suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. It is also GREENGUARD certified gold and comes with a complimentary matching mattress. It's important to remember that this bed is more expensive than the other top options, and it requires a separate conversion kit for toddler beds.

Adjustable Mattress Height

It is important that the crib mattress of your baby is of the correct height. This will prevent your child from climbing out of the crib, which can be dangerous or fatal. A mattress that is higher can also help to keep your child safe from overheating or becoming suffocated.

A good crib should come with adjustable rails or slats which allow you to raise the mattress or lower it as your child grows. A conversion kit is provided with most good cribs so that you can convert it into a daybed or toddler bed after your child has outgrown the crib. It is also a good idea to select a crib which is tested and certified by a third-party organization. This includes the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) seal and GREENGUARD Gold certification, which means it has been tested to ensure there are minimal chemicals or finishes present in the crib where your baby sleeps.

The Graco Sweet2Sleep Crib has simple design and doesn't have confusing parts. It is one of the top-rated cribs. The sides of the crib are a bit shorter than many other models, but one parent tester stated that her baby slept well in it and was still in good condition when she gave it to a relative after the birth of her second child was born.

Stokke Sleepi Crib is another great option. It features an oval shape which gives it a contemporary look. It is a little more expensive than other cribs, but its quality and features are worth it. It is able to be converted into a toddler bed or bassinet, and it has wheels to make it easy to move. It also comes with a canopy that can be used to create a womb-like environment for your baby. It's also an elegant look to any nursery.

The only issue with this crib is that it doesn't include an additional mattress, which you'll need to purchase separately. It's a safe, comfortable crib that will adapt to your child's needs as they transition from infant to toddler.

No Chewable or Dangling Parts

The safest cribs are those that do not have chewable or dangling components. Babies love to grasp objects, and if something is hanging from or above their crib it could snag against the rails or create a strangulation hazard. If a parent decides to decorate their crib with decorative items or toys, they need to be sure that the items are securely fastened and are out of Baby's reach.

We also look at how easy it is to put together our top cribs for infants. The ideal crib will be simple enough to be able to do it yourself, and doesn't require any special tools or a long time to assemble. Most parents report that it takes less than one hour to put together a modern crib, and the instructions are usually easy to follow.

A crib is the most recommended cribs expensive purchase for new parents, so it's important to find one that will last for a long time to come. For long-lasting use, choose a convertible crib that can work from infancy all the way up to the toddler bed, and then an adult-sized bed.

The Ikea Nestig Cloud crib is our top pick for convertible cribs that can be used as a bassinet for the early months and then converted into a toddler bed, a daybed, or a larger bed. It's designed to last for a long time and is available in a variety of colors which makes it easy to match with your nursery's theme.

Another option that is a great choice is the Stork Craft Equinox 3-in-1 crib sets. This gorgeous, minimal-style crib is low-profile that makes it easier for parents who are small to touch their child and comfort their child. It is renowned for its quality, and is available in cherry, white and espresso colors.

This crib is Greenguard Gold Certified for finish quality and environmental safety. It's constructed from sustainably-sourced New Zealand pine that is free of toxins such as lead and phthalates (BPA). It also exceeds government standards like ASTM, CPSC and JPMA. The only thing that's missing is a toddler rail that you can purchase separately. This is a good option for those who want an affordable, high-quality crib that will last.